Vendor Management Specialist

Project Overview This role supports one of New Zealand’s most significant and technically complex vertical infrastructure developments. The project is a large-scale, secure operational facility being delivered through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) and joint venture model, bringing together some of the country’s most experienced construction, engineering and service delivery organisations. Designed to operate around the clock once complete, the facility incorporates high-security environments, complex building systems, and long-term asset management requirements. The project environment is fast-paced, highly collaborative and governance-led, with strong interface management across public and private sector stakeholders. Relocation Opportunity to Christchurch This role is based in Christchurch; however, we are open to considering exceptional candidates from anywhere in New Zealand. Relocation support is offered to the successful applicant to assist with moving to Christchurch and joining this landmark infrastructure project. About the Opportunity We are seeking a proactive and relationship-focused Vendor Management Specialist to support the delivery of this nationally significant infrastructure project. This role is responsible for managing supplier performance, strengthening vendor relationships, and ensuring the supply chain operates efficiently, compliantly, and in alignment with project objectives. You will play a key role in driving value, improving supplier outcomes, and mitigating supply chain risk. Vendor Management Reporting to the Procurement Subcontracts Manager, the Vendor Management Specialist is responsible for overseeing supplier performance and engagement across the project lifecycle. You will work closely with procurement, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure suppliers meet contractual obligations, performance standards, and project timelines. Key Responsibilities Manage supplier relationships across multiple subcontract and supply packages Monitor vendor performance against KPIs, contracts, and service level agreements Identify and mitigate supplier risks, issues, and performance gaps Support onboarding and mobilisation of new suppliers Collaborate with procurement teams during sourcing, evaluation, and contract award phases Ensure compliance with contractual, commercial, and governance requirements Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain Support dispute resolution and commercial issue management with vendors Maintain vendor performance data, reporting, and documentation Work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment between supplier delivery and project needs Promote ethical procurement practices and adherence to company standards About You You are a strong communicator with a commercial mindset and a passion for building high-performing supplier relationships in complex project environments. You bring: Experience in vendor or supplier management within construction, infrastructure, or engineering projects Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills Ability to assess supplier performance and drive improvement outcomes Confidence working within structured governance and contract frameworks A proactive, solutions-focused approach with strong attention to detail Qualifications, Skills, and Experience Relevant tertiary qualification in Procurement, Business, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) 5–8+ years’ experience in vendor management, procurement, or contract administration Experience working within large-scale or complex project environments (PPP experience advantageous) Understanding of contract management, supplier performance metrics, and risk management Familiarity with procurement systems (e.g. SAP) and reporting tools Strong commercial awareness and problem-solving capability Excellent communication, organisational, and analytical skills What We Offer This role offers a genuinely unique opportunity to work within a joint‑venture environment, combining the strength and capability of a highly respected New Zealand constructor with the scale, systems, and global experience of a leading international infrastructure organisation. We offer: The opportunity to be embedded in a large‑scale, high‑profile project from early stages through delivery Exposure to both local best practice and world‑class global systems and processes, providing invaluable professional development A collaborative, inclusive project team environment that values expertise, partnership, and shared success Strong leadership, structure, and support within a well‑resourced organisation Competitive remuneration aligned to skills and experience